I See the Rhythm

I See the Rhythm(2005) is a book about the history and the various genres of african american music, written by Toyomi Igus and beautifully illustrated by Michele Wood. Each section of the book is devoted to a different genre including the blues, ragtime, jazz, big band jazz, free jazz, gospel, rock n' roll, funk, hip-hop. What sets this book apart from other similar books is that the information on the genres is offered in a celebratory style of writing, which resembles free verse poetry. Even more interesting is the fact that the writing and the structure of the words, seem to follow the patterns of each of the musical styles presented. Apart from the homages to each musical style, Igus's book also offers a timeline of important political events and milestones in the history of music.

 

 

I would classify this book as a multicultular non-fiction book.

It is a book which incorporates actual facts. At the same time it offers a look into the musical culture of African Americans, a culture that, especially in the past, has been overlooked or undermined by the dominant, white groups. Igus celebrates the diversity and the power of african american music, and the reader is also swept away by her enthusiasm.

The illustrations of the book are truly magnificent. They are colorful and vibrant, and the fluidity of the shapes and forms really complements the theme of the book.

 

 

This book can spark endless discussions about music, as well as cultural diversity. A motivational activity inspired by this

book could be to ask the students to write the lyrics to a song of their own in one of the styles presented in the book. I could also ask them to write a short essay about the role of music in their lives.

I would also ask them the following questions:

1)What is your favorite musical genre? Why?

2)What are the special characteristics of each musical genre presented in the book?

3)What was music's role in the African American struggle for equality?

The content of Igus's book is aligned with Saint Leo's Core Value of Respect. Saint Leo celebrates diversity and the exchange of ideas. By reading this book, students who know very little about African American culture will acquire valuable knowledge on African American music, and perhaps come to love it. They will also be informed about the adversities that black people had to face through the years.

 

 

 

Toyomi Igus has had a rich and varied writing and communications career. Igus published her first children’s book in 1991. Other works include:

Two Mrs Gibsons (2001)

Going Back Home:An Artist Returns to the South(1996)

When I was Little(1992)

 

Michele Wood is a painter, illustrator, designer, and writer who has gained wide recognition in the United States for her award-winning books and critically acclaimed art exhibits. She was honored with the prestigious American Book Award for her first book, Going Back Home, and by the American Library Association with the 1999 Coretta Scott King Illustrator Award for her I See the Rhythm.

 

References:

Igus, Toyomi (2005). I See the Rhythm. Children's Book Press.

 

Galda, C. &. (2011). Literature and the Child Seventh Edition . Belmont: Wadsworth Publishing